Lonnie Ray Barton, age 92, returned home to his Heavenly Father, on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at his home in Mesa, Arizona. His Eternal Companion, Luella was at his side. Ray and Eva Luella Dutson were married for Time and All Eternity in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on November 9, 1956.
Ray learned at an early age that hard work and dedication leads to success. As a child, he overcame polio and other life-threatening obstacles. He started his first job at age 8 so that his father would have less burdens supporting the family.
Ray bravely served in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict (at ages 16- 20). He was stationed in both Korea and Japan. It was there that he learned to speak fluent Japanese.
He became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on November 5,1955. Through their 67 years of marriage, with Luella as his partner, they had several adventures. Having fulfilled a building mission to Hawaii with his wife as companion and 3 little girls in tow, he returned to Utah where throughout their years, they built over 600 apartment units, several single-family-homes, condos, a Bed and Breakfast and even a car wash. They also built 2 motels in Arizona. Finally retiring in Mesa.
They enjoyed traveling to distant countries and "temple hopping" to almost 80 sites throughout the world, including the South Pacific. Japan always pulled at his heart-strings and they visited several times. It was always a delight to him that he would listen and respond in Japanese. Everyone had a good laugh when they realized he could understand all that was being said.
Family was always important to him. He took every opportunity to be together with them. Lake Powell was a family favorite destination and created many wonderful memories.
Ray was generous. He always shared what he had. It wasn't uncommon for him tease a waitress with a $1 tip, hiding behind it was $100 bill. He had a wonderful laugh and enjoyed telling stories. It was a common "threat to naughty grandchildren" to "put them on the roof".
Ray is survived by his amazing wife, Luella; also by their children: Sheila (Craig) Jacobs, Barbara Dawes, RaeElla (Jerry) Julian, Robert (Rebecca Campbell) Barton, LRay (Kari Anne) Barton, Cheryl (Louis) Tamez; 18 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 7 great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by a daughter, Debbie, and his parents and siblings.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the Barton's friends and neighbors for taking such great care of them, as well as Hospice of the Valley for their love and compassion during his winding up days.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Family and Friends may gather at the Nickle Mortuary, 190 S. Center St, Delta, beginning at 12:15 pm. Those unable to attend are invited to view the video of the service. Burial with military rites will follow at the Leamington Cemetery.